JAKARTA — The government officially awarded the title of National Hero to the second President of the Republic of Indonesia, General H.M. Soeharto, on Heroes’ Day, November 10, 2025, at the State Palace, Jakarta.
The award was stipulated in Presidential Decree Number 116/TK/2025 and serves as a form of state respect for Soeharto’s services in defending independence and building the foundation of the national economy.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and unity amidst the various public reactions to the decision.
“Let us realize the values of struggle by maintaining security and order together. Do not be easily provoked by information that is not necessarily true,” he said.
He emphasized that the nation’s current challenge is no longer physical war, but maintaining unity amidst the flow of digitalization and differing views.
“Today’s heroes are those who are able to maintain peace, spread kindness, and strengthen the spirit of mutual cooperation in their respective communities,” he added.
The Chief of the Indonesian National Police, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, emphasized the readiness of security forces to maintain a conducive national situation.
“We have prepared anticipatory measures to ensure the situation remains safe and peaceful. However, the most important thing is the active role of the public in rejecting provocation and spreading the message of brotherhood,” he said.
He invited all elements of the nation to make the spirit of Heroes’ Day a momentum to strengthen unity and maintain the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
“Let’s work together to maintain conducive conditions, honor the services of the heroes, and continue their struggle by maintaining security and brotherhood in society,” he emphasized.
Support for the awarding of the title came from various groups, including major Islamic organizations such as Muhammadiyah.
Dr. Makroen Sanjaya, Chairman of the Library and Information Council of Muhammadiyah Central Executive Board, considered Suharto an important figure in the nation’s history.
He cited Suharto’s involvement in the General Offensive of March 1, 1949, as well as his success in the Repelita program and rice self-sufficiency as real legacies of national development.
The government called on all citizens to respect state decisions, maintain calm, and reject all forms of provocation that could disrupt national security and unity. (*)
